Spelt (Triticum spelta L.) also known as dinkel wheat is perhaps the best known of the “ancient” wheats. It has been widely cultivated until the spread of fertilizers and mechanical harvesting left it aside in favor of wheats more compatible with industrialization.
This grain, which can substitute wheat easily in all recipes, is actually packed with nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and essential organic compounds that other cereals and forms of wheat don’t contain, which might explain the renewed interest in spelt as a healthy food in many parts of Europe and of the world.
In fact, it has very high levels of protein (21% of the daily recommended intake) and dietary fiber (30% in a single serving) and also contains significant amounts of iron, copper, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, selenium, niacin, thiamin, vitamin B6, and folic acid that are very important for a good health.
Fiber facilitates healthy digestion, speeds up the absorption of nutrients and helps reducing constipation, bloating, cramping, excess gas, diarrhea, and more serious gastrointestinal issues like ulcers. It also helps to lower the levels of dangerous cholesterol in the body by regulating a healthy balance of fatty acids as well as to control the release of insulin and glucose, important to control diabetes..
The high levels of iron and copper in spelt can contribute to a better blood circulation, while the essential vitamin niacin plays a key role in the regulation of the endocrine and particularly in the production of sex hormones. Spelt also contains an impressive range of essential minerals that are necessary for bone health, for development and growth (e.g phosphorus), to boost the immune system, while also easing psychological stress and anxiety.
Choosing organic spelt products makes sure that all the healthy micronutrients are intact and no toxic substances are contained, e.g from insecticides, pesticides etc.